This passage (along with companion texts in Matt 16:24-26; Lk 9:23-26; Jn 12:24-26) is frequently taught today as a post-conversion dedication text to a deeper or higher or victorious or abundant or crucified or more consecrated Christian living, but that is eisegesis stemming from corrupted soteriology and sanctification — certainly not what this unambiguous passage on repentance and salvation actually means. Consider a brief exposition of this text that teaches saving rep

When the Scriptures speak of denying self, losing ones life, taking up the cross, forsaking all, and following Christ, such as found in the four Gospels preached by Christ, notably: Matt. 10:32-39; 16:24-26; Mk. 8:34-38; 10:21; Lk. 9:23-26, 57-62; 14:25-15:32; Jn. 12:24-25, the subject is a call to salvation, as also exposited here. The call to discipleship is a call to salvation. They are one and the same. When Christ preached to the lost multitudes and professing believers